'Henna Heals' Paints Beautiful Henna Crowns for Those Who've Lost Their Hair

I can't imagine the trauma of losing one's hair. However, millions of cancer patients know exactly what that's like. Enter Henna Heals, an organization that creates beautiful henna designs on the heads of those who've lost their hair due to chemotherapy and conditions like alopecia.

Henna Heals is based on Canada, but has over 150 artists spread around the world who "create intricate temporary crowns on the bare head with homemade henna paste. The designs last for about two weeks and, according to the organization's founder, Frances Darwin, are both empowering and healing." Unlike traditional methods — scarves, wigs, hats — the henna seamlessly fits into the life of the patient without adding bulk. The designs attract attention for their beauty, making for a wonderful way to turn a frightening experience into a touching one.

Frances Darwin had this to say about the project:

For cancer patients, the henna crowns really are a healing experience. This is all about them reclaiming a part of themselves that would normally be perceived as ill or damaged or not nice to look at and making it more feminine and beautiful.

The artists at Henna Heals keep the organization running by offering henna services at special events, using 10% of proceeds to compensate for the henna crowns they make for those who've lost their hair due to medical conditions. The results are truly astonishing. Find out more at Henna Heals.